From the Desk of Mary Federico 

Hello and welcome to Montowese School. There are many new and exciting initiatives we are implementing for the 2012-2013 school year.  We are piloting a language arts concept based unit of study in each grade level, using the Readers’ Wkshop model. Grades K and 1 are piloting a new math program, Math in Focus, as well as one classroom per grade level. We are aligning our instruction with the Common Core State Standards. 

At the beginning of the school year the staff collaboratively created our School Improvement Plan.  Every grade level will be implementing various action steps to address this plan.  Every morning for a 30 minute block of time every staff member in the school will be working with small groups of students to address skills needed to improve student performance.  These skill groups are aligned to our school improvement plan. 

At Montowese Every Minute Counts!  School begins 8:30 a.m. and ends at 3:02 p.m.  Parents may begin dropping off students at 8:00 a.m. We ask that parents do not drop off students directly in front of the building due to the arrival of buses and vans. It is important that every student is here on time to ensure academic success.  It is difficult for a child to walk into the classroom after the school day begins and then have to spend time catching up with the rest of the class.  Also, children need to be in school every day unless there is an emergency or the child is ill.   If your child will not be in school please notify the nurse at 203 239-0235.  Appointments should be made after school or on weekends.  We appreciate your cooperation in this matter 

Reminder/ Birthday Celebrations:  Every child will be recognized on their birthday by having their name announced over the intercom system and will receive a prize that day. To eliminate loss of instructional time throughout the month each classroom will celebrate students' birthdays the last school day of each month.

Montowese School is a great place to be. The staff and I anticipate an enriching, exciting school year. We look forward working with the entire school community. Thank you for your continued support and participation in creating an environment where children become successful learners and enjoy coming to school each day.

Sincerely,

Mary Federico